Evolution / Genetics / Biology

Saudi-French team discovers Stone Age sites in Tabuk

Saudi international missions operating in the Tabuk region under the supervision of the Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage (SCTH) have discovered a large number of stone tools, rock art and architectural structures at three sites in the region.

SPA Photo

These discoveries date back to different civilizations beginning from the Stone Age until the Islamic Era. The specialized teams said that these sites need further study and excavation.

Engravings of animals and other rock art dating back to 7,000 BC to 9,000 BC were found at the Kilwa site, located within the Al-Tabik Reserve, northeast of Tabuk.

The Tabuk region was a conduit for ancient trade routes. In the valleys and pastoral areas between the Tabuk and Jouf regions, a Saudi-Japanese team recorded 30 sites dating back to various periods and ages of the Palaeolithic, Neolithic, Bronze, Iron Age and Islamic times.

Under the supervision of the SCTH, there are more than 30 missions and scientific teams specialized in research and archaeological exploration. These teams include Saudi scientists and others from the world’s top universities and the most prestigious research centers from countries including France, Italy, the United States, Britain, Germany, Japan, Belgium, Poland, Finland, the Netherlands, Austria and others.